Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Transportation electrification research wins $1 million DOE grant

The Department of Energy awarded nearly $1 million to researchers at the University of Arkansas to develop a prototype for high-voltage power modules that can handle higher voltages and temperatures. The goal is to create smaller, more efficient, and more reliable fast-charging stations for electric vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·DateOct 31, 2024

Ultraprecise method of aligning 3D semiconductor chips invented at UMass Amherst

Researchers at UMass Amherst have developed a new method for aligning 3D semiconductor chips with precision as small as 0.017 nanometers, enabling lower costs and increased access to this technology. The approach uses lasers and holograms to detect misalignments without moving parts.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 28, 2024

UVA engineering professor secures federal small business grant to improve heat management in advanced microelectronics

Professor Patrick E. Hopkins of UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science has secured a $289,830 Small Business Innovation Research grant to develop a precise tool for measuring heat movement in microchips. The technology will enhance cooling and prevent overheating in next-generation devices.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateOct 25, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

UCSB researchers create the first ever visualization of photoexcited charges traveling across the interface of two semiconductor materials

UCSB researchers used scanning ultrafast electron techniques to visualize fleeting electric charges in semiconductor materials. The study provides direct visual evidence of charge transfer across the interface, shedding light on the behavior of hot photocarriers and their impact on device performance.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2024

New cooling system works on gravity instead of electricity

Researchers at KAUST have developed a new cooling system that extracts water from the air using gravity, eliminating the need for electricity. The system can double the rate of water collection compared to alternative technologies and offers significant energy savings.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 29, 2024

Temporarily apart

Researchers induced fast switching between electrically neutral and charged luminescent particles in an ultra-thin, two-dimensional material. The result opens up new perspectives for optical data processing and flexible detectors.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2024

Breakthrough in submicron transistor thermal simulation through efficient phonon BTE method

Researchers have developed a novel computational method to simulate heat conduction at the nanoscale, overcoming limitations of traditional models by eliminating empirical parameters and increasing efficiency. This breakthrough enables accurate thermal simulations for complex nanoscale structures, paving the way for designing materials...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalFundamental Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 20, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Molecular level changes translate to big efficiency gains for organic solar cells

Researchers from Osaka University have synthesized a new molecule that increases the power conversion efficiency of organic solar cells. The molecule's design reduces exciton binding energy, making it easier to convert sunlight into current. This breakthrough paves the way for high-performance and large-scale photovoltaic applications.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024

Researchers observe floquet states in colloidal nanoplatelets driven by visible pulses

Researchers directly observed Floquet states in colloidal nanoplatelets driven by visible pulses using all-optical spectroscopy. The study provided an all-optical direct observation of Floquet states in semiconductor materials and uncovered rich spectral and dynamic physics of these states.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 21, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Finding pearls in the mud: eco-friendly tungsten recovery from semiconductor waste

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have unveiled an eco-friendly method to extract rare metals from semiconductor waste, recovering precious tungsten and assessing its economic viability. The bioleaching process, using a fungus to dissolve metals, is found to be 7% cheaper than traditional methods.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateAug 7, 2024

Novel micro-OLED technology with over 20K ppi resolution

Researchers developed a photolithography-compatible technology for ultra-high-resolution organic semiconductor devices, enabling OLED displays with resolutions of over 20K ppi. This breakthrough addresses the challenge of damaging organic materials during photolithographic processing, paving the way for next-generation displays.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalWearable Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2024

“Smarter” semiconductor technology for training “smarter” artificial intelligence

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a novel analog hardware using ECRAM devices that maximizes AI computational performance. Their technique, which uses a three-terminal structure with separate paths for reading and writing data, demonstrates excellent electrical and switching characteristics.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 31, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

It’s got praying mantis eyes

Researchers at UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science developed artificial compound eyes that mimic praying mantis vision, offering improved depth perception and reduced power consumption by over 400 times compared to traditional systems.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 24, 2024

AI-powered optical detection to thwart counterfeit chips

A new method uses deep learning and gold nanoparticle patterns to detect tampered chips with high accuracy. The approach outperforms previous methods in detecting counterfeit chips, offering a promising solution for the $75 billion industry.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2024

Detecting defects in tomorrow’s technology

Researchers investigate defects in 2D materials, finding that some can improve electrical conductivity and shedding light on a common defect related to missing chalcogen atoms. Understanding these defects is crucial for refining processes needed to create precise TMD-based semiconductors.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·Journal2D Materials·DateJul 9, 2024
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Novel method enhances size-controlled production of luminescent quantum dots

Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a novel approach to monitoring quantum dot formation, enabling real-time control over nanoparticle growth and precise emission color. This technique has several advantages over conventional synthesis strategies, including reduced waste and improved equipment efficiency.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 2, 2024

Understanding why carbon nanotube bundles become mechanically weak when twisted

Researchers discovered that twisting carbon nanotube bundles creates long, curved disclination lines, decreasing their mechanical strength. The study sheds light on the correlation between microscopic internal changes and material properties, paving the way for potential solutions to realize high-performance CNT yarns.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024

Researchers propose the next platform for brain-inspired computing

Scientists at UC Santa Barbara develop new neuromorphic computing platform that mimics human brain energy efficiency, reducing power consumption by about 100 times. The 2D tunnel-transistors use lower off-state currents and low subthreshold swing to enable faster and more efficient switching.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 25, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

A quantum world on a silicon chip

A team of researchers has developed a platform to probe, interact with and control quantum systems in silicon. They used an electric diode to manipulate qubits inside a commercial silicon wafer, exploring how the defect responds to changes in the electric field and tuning its wavelength within the telecommunications band.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2024

Discovery of one-dimensional topological insulator for qubits and more!

Researchers at Tohoku University have unveiled a groundbreaking discovery of a one-dimensional topological insulator (TI), a unique state of matter that differs from conventional metals, insulators, and semiconductors. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of qubits and highly efficient solar cells.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature·DateJun 18, 2024

Turning up the heat on next-generation semiconductors

Scientists studied gallium nitride devices under extreme temperatures and found that ohmic contacts remained structurally intact even at 500 degrees Celsius. This breakthrough could lead to the development of high-performance transistors for Venus exploration and other applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 23, 2024
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Renewable grid: Recovering electricity from heat storage hits 44% efficiency

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new thermophotovoltaic cell that can recover significantly more energy from heat batteries, increasing efficiency to 44%. The device uses air bridges to trap photons with the right energies, allowing for the recycling of useless photons and improving overall performance.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJoule·DateMay 23, 2024

Polymer research aims to expand possibilities in sensor technology

Researchers aim to create polymers that can form the basis of effective sensors for applications in physiological, environmental, and Internet of Things monitoring. The goal is to increase energy efficiency and broaden material choices, enabling devices to operate at low voltage and interact with ions and transport ionic charges.

SourceLehigh University·DateMay 21, 2024

Plasma treatment of semiconductor films can improve hydrogen production

Researchers at CDMF and CINE developed a novel plasma treatment approach for antimony tri-selenide films, making them hydrophilic and improving their photoelectroactivity. This enhancement enables the material to produce hydrogen gas through solar-driven water splitting.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateMay 16, 2024
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

New method unravels the mystery of slow electrons

Researchers have developed a new method to study slow electrons in solids, allowing for the deciphering of previously inaccessible information. By combining data from fast and slow electrons, scientists can now investigate how electrons release energy in their interaction with materials, crucial for applications such as cancer therapy ...

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2024

A new, low-cost, high-efficiency photonic integrated circuit

A new, low-cost, high-efficiency photonic integrated circuit has been developed using lithium tantalate technology. The breakthrough platform offers scalable and cost-effective manufacturing of advanced electro-optical PICs, paving the way for volume manufacturing.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2024

Tweaking isotopes sheds light on promising approach to engineer semiconductors

Researchers have discovered a promising approach to engineer semiconductors by tweaking isotopes, which can influence optical and electronic properties. The study demonstrates that small changes in isotope masses can shift the optical bandgap, enabling tunability for designing new devices.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2024

Photocrosslinking, not Ojak bridge, facilitates transistor functionality

A team from Pohang University of Science & Technology has developed a memory transistor that can adjust its threshold voltage through photocrosslinking. The innovation combines two molecules with a polymeric semiconductor to form a stable bond, enabling precise control of the semiconductor layer's structure.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 2, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Scientists solve chemical mystery at the interface of biology and technology

Researchers at the University of Washington have solved a long-standing chemical mystery in organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), which allow current to flow in devices like implantable biosensors. The study reveals that OECTs turn on via a two-step process, causing a lag, and off through a simpler one-step process.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2024

When does a conductor not conduct?

A new atomically-thin material has been discovered that can switch between an insulating and conducting state by controlling the number of electrons. This property makes it a promising candidate for use in electronic devices such as transistors.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

A simple ‘twist’ improves the engine of clean fuel generation

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed low-cost light-harvesting semiconductors that power devices for converting water into clean hydrogen fuel using sunlight. By growing copper oxide crystals in a specific orientation, they improved performance by an order of magnitude and increased stability.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateApr 24, 2024

Study shows: 2D materials rotate light polarization

A German-Indian research team has achieved a significant breakthrough in developing miniaturized optical isolators by utilizing ultra-thin two-dimensional materials. The researchers successfully rotated the polarization of visible light by several degrees under small magnetic fields, paving the way for on-chip integration of optical co...

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2024

Highly efficient and stable NIR phosphor for night vision and bio-imaging

A new NIR phosphor with broadband emission, high luminous efficiency, and thermal stability has been developed for multi-functional applications. The phosphor is composed of Cr³⁺ activated in Y₂Mg₂Al₂Si₂O₁₂ host materials, showing potential for night visualization, bio-imaging, and non-intrusive detection.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Researchers develop energy-efficient computer by combining CMOS with stochastic nanomagnet

Researchers have created a probabilistic computer prototype that combines CMOS with stochastic nanomagnets, achieving superior computational performance and energy-efficiency. The new technology reduces area and energy consumption by four and three orders of magnitude compared to current CMOS circuits.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 17, 2024

Dual-beamline photoelectron momentum microscopy upgrade revolutionizes valence orbital analysis

Researchers upgraded a photoelectron momentum microscope to use two undulator beamlines, enabling element-selective measurements and precise analyses of valence orbitals. This innovation provides deeper insights into the behavior of electrons in materials, advancing fields like condensed matter physics and materials science.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of Synchrotron Radiation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 16, 2024

A single atom layer of gold – LiU researchers create goldene

Scientists at Linköping University have created sheets of gold only a single atom layer thick, termed goldene. This material has given gold new properties that can make it suitable for applications such as carbon dioxide conversion, hydrogen production, and selective production of value-added chemicals.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Synthesis·DateApr 16, 2024
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

KAIST researchers developed a novel ultra-low power memory for neuromorphic computing​

Researchers at KAIST have developed a novel ultra-low power memory device that can replace existing memory or be used in implementing neuromorphic computing. The new phase change memory device consumes 15 times less power than conventional devices, enabling the development of low-cost and energy-efficient artificial intelligence hardware.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 4, 2024

Chemically bonded Mn₀․₅Cd₀․₅S/BiOBr S-scheme photocatalyst with rich oxygen vacancies for improved photocatalytic decontamination performance

A team of researchers has created a new photocatalyst that can effectively remove pollutants from water. The Mn₀․₅Cd₀․₅S/BiOBr S-scheme photocatalyst features rich oxygen vacancies, which improve its photocatalytic performance.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2024

DGIST research team develops next-generation semiconductor memory that operates in extreme environments

Researchers at DGIST have developed a new manufacturing technology that enables the production of high-quality oxide films and effective patterning at low temperatures. The technology is expected to be used in next-generation computing systems, overcoming existing shortcomings.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Material Science and Technology·DateMar 28, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Giving particle detectors a boost

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a nanocryotron, a prototype for an on-off switch that can amplify weak electrical signals from tiny particles in collider experiments. The device could help facilitate the operation of new particle colliders and improve the accuracy of observations.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 11, 2024

3D reflector microchips could speed development of 6G wireless

The team's innovative design enables ultra-compact quasi-true-time-delay technology, increasing data rate and channel capacity by nearly doubling that of conventional wireless arrays. This breakthrough could lead to faster service and more data transmission for cellphone users.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateMar 6, 2024